An international criminal group was broken up, 15 Bulgarians were arrested – Bulgaria

State Agency “National Security” (DANS) initiated an international operation to intercept the activities of organized criminal groups involved in the construction of illegal factories for the production of cigarettes on the territory of a foreign country, channels for contraband and realization of illegal production in EU countriesreported DANS.

A total of 20 people were arrested as alleged members of a criminal organization, 15 of which are Bulgarian citizens. More than six million short fake cigarettes were seized, as well as 33 tons of raw tobacco with a total value of more than 7.5 million euros.

It was acquired in DANS information on the activities of international organized criminal groups, sympathetic to the construction of illegal factories for the production of cigarettes, their supply with raw materials and consumables, employment of workers, logistical provision and placement of the finished product, as well as financing of all criminal activity.

In parallel with this, it was also established the operation of smuggling channels of cigarettes without a parcel.

In 2023 and 2024, coordination was carried out with the partner services of Spain and a complex of activities was carried out to document and intercept the criminal activity of groups engaged in illegal production and sale of tobacco products.

It has been established that the funds acquired from criminal activity are introduced into the financial circulation by means of mechanisms for “washing” them.

In the final phase of the operation, in March and April this year, in Spanish cities Madrid and Lucena two illegal factories with equipment for the production, packaging and distribution of cigarette products of well-known brands were discovered.

The investigation remains open and further action has not been ruled out.

Every moment is important! Follow us at Google News Showcase and Instagramto keep up with the topics of the day